Resolve to get all promises in writing. Make sure the contract provisions match what the salesperson told you. Read and understand the contract and guarantee before you sign.
- Resolve to guard your personal information. Give out credit card, bank account, or Social Security numbers very cautiously. Be wary of phone calls, mail or email messages asking for such information.
- Resolve to help children become informed consumers. Counsel them on establishing a budget, help them spot signs of fraud/rip-offs, inform them about online privacy and security issues.
- Resolve to shop safely online. Cyberspace crooks have the potential to perpetuate scams quickly on the web – leaving no paper trails and bypassing geographical boundaries.
Resolve to resist the lure of "easy money". If you are contemplating work-from-home opportunities, do your homework. Verify their promises such as "fast money", "no experience necessary," and "work from the comfort of your home". Get references, contact satisfied customers, check with the BBB. - Resolve to be an informed investor. Scam artists tailor their investment pitches well to entice unsuspecting investors. Avoid any pitches that require you to "act now" or that "guarantee" unbelievable profits.
- Resolve to formalize a savings plan. Determine how much you need to bolster your financial cushion and develop a plan to achieve your goal.
Resolve to tackle your debt load. Establish a debt repayment plan for the year – and keep strict records. Pay more than required on monthly debt payments. - Resolve to be wary of unsolicited credit offers. Ignore ads from unfamiliar companies, especially those requiring advance fees to secure a low-interest loan or repair your credit rating (despite a bad credit history).
- Resolve to deal only with reliable merchants. Don't do business with door-to-door salesmen. Make sure that the business has a permanent address and phone number. Check customer references and contact the BBB for information on the company's marketplace record.
